AFAIK - "Star" mark on 1903 barrels is more like an Asterisk.

I was under impression "star gauge" barrels were more a precision measuring & selection process, rather than, special finish procedures.

I am unaware of Krag 'star gauged' barrels.

BTW - In the early 1900's, there was the scandal of a U.S. Wimbledon Team winning with 'Winchester or Pope made' barrels on their Krags.

They were later disqualified, since it broke the rules of not being an issued arm. The trophy was returned and awarded to the 2nd place team.